ARK Server Manager (ASM) is a Windows tool that gives you a graphical interface for running ARK servers. Instead of editing config files and launch parameters by hand, you click through settings, hit start, and your server runs. Here is how to set it up.
What ARK Server Manager Is
ASM is a third-party Windows application that wraps around the ARK server software. It provides a GUI for:
- Installing and updating the server files
- Configuring all server settings (rates, rules, players)
- Managing mods
- Starting, stopping, and saving the server
- Running multiple server instances (different maps) from one interface
It is the easiest way to self-host an ARK server on a Windows machine without touching config files directly.
When to Use ASM
ASM makes sense when:
- You want to host a server on your own PC or a Windows VPS
- You prefer a visual interface over editing INI files
- You run multiple maps and want them managed in one place
- You are new to server hosting and want a guided experience
For Linux servers or cloud hosting, you usually use the command-line server tools directly or a game panel instead.
Installing ARK Server Manager
- Download ASM from its official source
- Run the installer on your Windows machine
- Configure the installation path for server files (this will be large, budget plenty of disk space)
- Let ASM download the ARK server files through SteamCMD
The initial download is large because it pulls the full server game files. Ensure you have strong internet and enough storage.
Configuring Your Server
Once installed, open the server profile and configure:
- Server name, password, and admin password
- Map selection
- Player slots
- XP, taming, harvesting, and breeding rate multipliers
- Day and night cycle speeds
- Difficulty and dino level caps
- Mods (add by Workshop ID)
All of these are presented as labeled fields and sliders rather than raw config text.
Starting the Server
Hit the start button and ASM launches the server process. It handles port forwarding reminders, SteamCMD updates, and mod downloads automatically. Once running, players connect via your public IP and the server port.
Managing Multiple Maps
ASM supports running multiple server instances simultaneously. Create a separate profile for each map, assign different ports, and start them individually. This lets you run an Island server and a Scorched Earth server from the same machine.
Port Forwarding
For players outside your local network to connect, forward the required ports on your router (usually 7777 and 27015 UDP/TCP). ASM reminds you of this during setup. Alternatively, hosting on a VPS with open ports removes the port forwarding requirement entirely.
Tips
Keep server files on an SSD for faster loading. Update the server and mods regularly through ASM to stay compatible with client updates. Schedule regular backups of your save files through ASM or manually.
FAQ
What is ARK Server Manager? A Windows GUI tool for setting up, configuring, and running ARK servers without manual config file editing.
Does ASM work for ARK Survival Ascended? Check for the latest ASM version or compatible forks. The tool was designed for Evolved but community versions support ASA.
Do I need a powerful PC? ARK servers are resource-intensive. For a smooth experience, you need a decent CPU, plenty of RAM (8GB+ per server), and an SSD.
Related: ARK Survival Ascended server hosting, ARK Survival Ascended mods, ARK Survival Ascended console commands